Sunday, May 8, 2011

Been A While

Time in the April garden seemed to sneak by without me. Except for snipping Live Oak root sprouts, my activity during this typically nice gardening period was limited. A busy personal schedule, drought conditions and early high temperatures conspired to keep me from accomplishing much - both in the yard and in the blog.

But there have been some stirrings in the garden. Recent minor rains at least got the Pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes rosea) perked up. A single specimen produced a nice blossom...

...with a larger patch holding the promise of additional blooms.

Planted in February, the Wall Iris (Iris tectorum) started producing its exotic blooms. However, the flower stalks tend to sprawl - falling off to the side. Thus the blooms are not visible unless standing directly beside the plant.

A couple of potted plants are showing some color. The Orange Kaffir Lily (Clivia miniata) has been pretty reliable - producing a stalk of brilliant orange blooms every year.

My only "typical" cactus, the Peanut Cactus (Echinopsis chamaecereus) is topped by a single red flower. The bloom does not last long, and only occurs sporadically - so its always a nice surprise when it blossoms.

Nearly a month before, during a tour of Pam Penick's garden (of Digging fame), I saw her Pittosporum Creme De Mint (Pittosporum tobira 'Shima') had already started producing significant new foliage. Needless to say, my worry level skyrocketed - as mine was just sitting there. And continued to do so as the weeks crept past. But with a sigh of relief, I can report that mine finally started producing bright green new growth.

After a brief respite, temperatures are again climbing. The drought continues. And the garden persists.